What a full history looks like
A full history means every service is written down with a date, a mileage and a garage. That can be a stamp in the service book, a printed invoice or a digital record from a dealer. Match each one to its date and mileage. Then compare those mileages with the MOT record. Computerised MOT records go back to 2005, so you have a second source to check against.
Look for warning signs. A mileage drop between MOTs is the classic sign of clocking. Stamps out of date order, or a service mileage that doesn't fit the MOT readings either side, need a closer look. Gaps and missing invoices are worth asking about. A gap isn't proof of anything, but ask the seller what was done and why there's no paperwork.
Ask for invoices, not just stamps. A stamp shows a visit happened, while an invoice shows what was done. Keep copies of anything you're shown. If the records don't add up, it's fair to ask questions or walk away. You can check the mileage history for free with our mileage check.
Matching it to the MOT record
Match each service stamp or invoice to its date and mileage, then check it against the MOT mileage record. Each service reading should sit between the MOT readings either side of it, and the mileage should climb steadily. A drop is the classic sign of clocking, where the odometer has been wound back. Selling a car without declaring the mileage is wrong is an offence, so treat any drop seriously.
Work through it like this: - Note each service date and mileage from the invoices. - Pull the mileage recorded at every MOT. - Check each service falls between the MOTs either side. - Look for years with no service or invoice.
The UK average is about 7,100 miles a year, so you can judge whether the figures add up. A missing invoice isn't always a problem, but gaps and missing invoices are worth asking about. Ask the seller to explain any drop, and check the mileage history yourself with our mileage check.
Missing history
Ask the seller for every stamp or invoice, then check each one against its date and mileage. Missing service history isn't always a dealbreaker, but it's always worth a question. Pay most attention to any years with nothing on record.
- Which garage did each service, and can you see the invoice?
- Are there gaps longer than a year, and why?
- Do the invoice mileages match the MOT record?
The MOT record fills some gaps for free. Computerised MOT records go back to 2005, so you can see the mileage at each test on the MOT history check. The average car covers about 7,100 miles a year, so a big jump or a drop in mileage between tests needs an answer. A drop is the classic sign of clocking.
Let gaps shape your offer. A patchy record is a fair reason to ask for a lower price, to cover checks or work that may be due. If the seller can't explain the gaps or won't let an independent garage look the car over, walk away.